Iceland
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General Travel Guide: The Land of Ice and Fire
Traveling to Iceland is like landing on another planet. It is a land of primeval and brutal beauty, where the forces of nature are visible to all. Here, the fire of the volcanoes and the ice of the glaciers fight in a perpetual dance, sculpting a landscape that defies the imagination. From the tales of the ancient Viking Sagas to the creativity of its modern capital, Reykjavík, Iceland is a country of contrasts. It is a place to feel small before the immensity of a waterfall, to marvel at the silent dance of the northern lights and to understand why its inhabitants have such a deep connection with this untamed land. Buckle up for an unforgettable ride.
Capital
Reykjavik
Population
375.318
Langue
IS
Sites du patrimoine de l'UNESCO
3
Indices de voyage
📊Indices de voyage
Le meilleur de Iceland
Expériences uniques
Bathe in a Geothermal Lagoon
Immersing yourself in the warm, milky waters of the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by a landscape of black lava, is the quintessential Icelandic experience. The silica mask and the feeling of relaxation are incomparable. There are many other lagoons and hot pools throughout the country, some more rustic and less crowded.
Walk behind a waterfall
At Seljalandsfoss, on the south coast, a path allows you to walk behind the curtain of water, offering a unique perspective and an incredibly refreshing experience. It is one of the most photogenic and magical places in the country, especially at sunset.
Explore a Blue Ice Cave
During winter, ice caves form on the edges of glaciers, such as Vatnajökull. Entering one of these caves with a guide is like entering a world of translucent blue glass. The light filtering through the ice creates a magical and unreal effect. It is an ephemeral and truly unique experience.
See Seals and Icebergs in Jökulsárlón
Watching the icebergs break off from the glacier and slowly float across the Jökulsárlón lagoon until they reach the sea is a hypnotic spectacle. Seals can often be seen swimming between the ice floes. Crossing the road to Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice shimmer on the black sand, completes the experience.
Ride an Icelandic Horse
The Icelandic horse is a unique breed, known for its robust size and extra gait, the 'tölt'. Riding through lava fields or along black sand beaches is a wonderful way to connect with the landscape and experience the terrain in the same way the early Viking settlers did.
Driving on the Ring Road
Traveling Route 1, which goes completely around the island, is the definitive road trip. It allows you to access most of the main attractions and discover the incredible diversity of Iceland's landscapes, from the eastern fjords to the volcanic plains of the north.
Pure Flavors of an Extreme Land
Icelandic cuisine is defined by its environment: it is pure, simple and based on the highest quality ingredients. Fresh North Atlantic fish, free-range lamb and unique dairy products such as skyr take center stage. Although famous for some extreme Viking Age dishes, modern Icelandic cuisine is innovative and sophisticated.
Icelandic cuisine is defined by its environment: it is pure, simple and based on the highest quality ingredients. Fresh North Atlantic fish, free-range lamb and unique dairy products such as skyr take center stage. Although famous for some extreme Viking Age dishes, modern Icelandic cuisine is innovative and sophisticated.
Product Purity and Quality
The isolation and clean waters make Icelandic seafood (salmon, cod, prawns) exceptional. Lamb has a distinctive flavor thanks to the animals grazing freely eating wild grasses.
Tradition and Survival
Historically, Icelanders relied on preservation methods such as drying, smoking, salting, and fermentation. Dishes such as 'hákarl' (fermented shark) or 'harðfiskur' (dried fish) are a legacy of that fight for survival.
Plats Iconiques
Kjötsúpa
A comforting and tasty lamb soup with root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and turnips. It is a traditional dish that warms the body and soul, perfect for a cold day.
skyr
A dairy product similar to very thick yogurt or fresh cheese, but technically classified as cheese. It is low in fat, high in protein and has a slightly tart flavor. It is eaten alone, with berries, or used in desserts.
Plokkfiskur
A creamy stew of white fish (usually cod or haddock), potatoes and onion, often served with dark rye bread and butter. It is homemade food par excellence.
Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog)
Considered by many to be the best hot dog in the world. Made mainly of lamb, you order 'eina með öllu' (one with everything): raw and fried onion, ketchup, sweet mustard and a remoulade sauce.
Harðfiskur
Dried fish (usually cod or haddock) eaten as a protein-rich snack. The traditional way to eat it is by spreading it generously with salted butter.
Hákarl
Iceland's most infamous dish. It is Greenland shark meat that is fermented for months. It has a strong smell of ammonia and a very particular flavor. It is usually taken with a shot of Brennivín.
Boissons typiques
Brennivín
The national liquor, often called 'The Black Death'. It is a potato distillate flavored with cumin. It is the traditional drink to accompany 'hákarl'.
Tap Water
The tap water in Iceland is some of the purest and most delicious in the world, straight from the glaciers. There is no need to buy bottled water.
Bjór (Beer)
Beer was banned in Iceland until 1989. Since then, a vibrant craft brewery scene has flourished, producing high-quality beers using the country's pure water.
Kókómjólk
Iceland's quintessential chocolate shake, a nostalgic drink loved by children and adults alike. It is a classic to accompany any snack.
Desserts traditionnels
Kleina (pl. Kleinur)
A fried sweet, similar to a twisted doughnut, often flavored with cardamom. They are a perfect accompaniment to coffee.
Hjónabandssæla
Its name translates as 'happy marriage cake'. It is an oatmeal tart with a generous filling of rhubarb jam. It is rustic and delicious.
Rúgbrauðsís (Rye Bread Ice Cream)
A modern but very popular dessert. Pieces of dark, sweet rye bread are mixed with a base of vanilla ice cream, creating a surprising combination of flavors and textures.
Pönnukökur
Some very thin crepes, cooked in a special pan. They are traditionally served rolled with sugar or with rhubarb jam and whipped cream.
Que voir par thème
Iceland's wealth lies in its unique natural phenomena and its landscapes that change drastically from one region to another. Next, we suggest you explore the country through different topics.
The Golden Circle: The Icelandic Classic
Iceland's most famous tourist route, accessible in one day from Reykjavík. It includes three essential stops: Þingvellir National Park, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates separate; the Haukadalur geothermal area, with the Strokkur geyser; and the imposing Gullfoss waterfall.
The South Coast: Waterfalls and Black Beaches
A spectacular route that is home to some of the most iconic landscapes in the country: the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, the basalt columns and black sand of Reynisfjara beach, and the village of Vík.
The East: Fjords and Remote Towns
The Eastfjords are one of the least visited regions, which gives them a special charm. The road winds along deep fjords, connecting picturesque fishing villages such as Seyðisfjörður, famous for its blue church and rainbow street.
The North: Volcanoes and Whale Watching
The Lake Mývatn region is a hotbed of geothermal activity, with lava fields, pseudocraters and fumaroles. The nearby town of Húsavík is considered the whale watching capital of Europe.
Reykjavík: Capital of Creativity
The world's northernmost capital is a vibrant and compact city. Its main attractions are the imposing Hallgrímskirkja church, the Harpa concert hall, its colorful streets, its museums, its lively nightlife and its excellent gastronomic scene.
The Westfjords
For travelers looking for the wildest and most remote Iceland, the Westfjords are the ideal destination. The roads here are mostly gravel, the Látrabjarg cliffs are home to millions of seabirds (including puffins), and the villages seem stuck in time.
Conseils de voyage
Climate and Clothing
The weather in Iceland is extremely changeable and unpredictable. The key is to dress in layers. Essential at any time of the year: a thermal base layer, a fleece lining, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don't forget a hat, gloves and sturdy trekking shoes.
Cost and Budget
Iceland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. To save, shop at budget supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan, take advantage of the accommodation kitchens and refill your water bottle at the tap. Reserve accommodation and rental car well in advance.
Driving
Renting a car is the best way to explore the country. Always check the state of the roads on road.is and the weather forecast. Be very careful with the wind, sheep on the road and sand storms. To access the highlands (F-roads), a 4x4 vehicle is mandatory.
Tips
Tipping is not part of Icelandic culture and is not expected. The service is included in all invoices. If you want to show your appreciation for exceptional service, it's a nice gesture, but not necessary.
This guide is just the beginning of your adventure in the land where nature dictates the rules. Iceland is a country that transforms you, that reminds you of the majesty and power of our planet. We encourage you to explore every corner, to respect its fragile environment and to be surprised by its untamed beauty. Góða ferð! (Have a good trip!)
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